Kansas City, MO, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $22: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Kansas City to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$22 by trainBest price
668 kmDistance
4h Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kansas City to Chicago with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
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Traveling From Kansas City to Chicago
Your journey from Kansas City to Chicago offers a fascinating shift from the rich, vibrant culture of jazz and barbecue to the bustling cityscape filled with deep-dish pizza and renowned skyscrapers.
Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago
Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own personality and attractions.
Lincoln Park
• Home to the bustling Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Offers charming boutiques and cafes along Armitage Avenue.
Wicker Park
• Known for its vibrant arts scene and street art.
• Packed with trendy shops, bars, and music venues.
Chinatown
• Features a variety of authentic Asian restaurants.
• Home to beautiful Chinese architecture and cultural sites.
Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions
Maximize your experience in Chicago by visiting these attractions at the optimal times.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a calmer atmosphere.
Millennium Park
Early evenings in spring and summer offer beautiful views and fewer tourists.
Navy Pier
Midweek visits in the off-peak season provide a more relaxed experience.
Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Chicago experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, offering distinct seasonal changes. Spring and fall are often regarded as the best times to visit, as milder temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Dining Recommendation in Chicago
Indulge in a slice of Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, where the hearty layers of cheese and sauce create a rich flavor profile that sets it apart from Kansas City's barbecue traditions. The lively atmosphere and focus on local ingredients offer a distinct dining experience, showcasing the city’s culinary creativity.
Kansas City - Chicago operators
Explore transport companies operating between Kansas City and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Kansas City (MCI) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
1h 23mEstimated price
$1025-1026Plane from Kansas City (MCI) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
3h 21mEstimated price
$1020-1027Website
united.com
Plane from Kansas City (MCI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
1h 38mEstimated price
$1028-1029Website
aa.com
Plane from Kansas City (MCI) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
1h 36mEstimated price
$1021-6050Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Kansas City to Chicago Union Station
Average Duration
11h 45mEstimated price
$22-190Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station
Average Duration
3h 55mEstimated price
$6059-220Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station
Average Duration
6h 39mEstimated price
$6054-221Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station
Average Duration
11h 34mEstimated price
$62-155Kansas City to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Kansas City and Chicago offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
Average price
$90 - $140
Traveling by train from Kansas City to Chicago is a convenient and comfortable option for those looking to explore the Midwest. The direct Amtrak train departs once daily from Kansas City station and arrives at Chicago Union Station, with the journey taking approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes. With services operating every day, travelers have flexibility in choosing their departure date. The train ticket prices vary from $22 to $190, providing options for different budgets. Passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route as they make their way from Kansas City to the vibrant city of Chicago.
Departure Point
Kansas City station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on Amtrak's Missouri River Runner and other operators include a Café Car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals, ranging from sandwiches to coffee. Be sure to check the menu when you board to see what daily specials may be available.
• On this route, Amtrak offers two seating options: Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class offers comfortable reclined seats, while Business Class provides larger seats with added legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Reserve your seat ahead of time for the best options.
• The main operators for this route are Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Southwest Chief (also under Amtrak's service umbrella). You can book your tickets and check schedules on the Amtrak website easily.
Traveling from Kansas City to Chicago by plane is convenient and efficient. The quickest flight is a direct one which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, provided by Southwest Airlines. The total flight time is around 3 hours and 57 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket varies between $112 to $555, offering options for different budgets. With multiple flights available daily, it's easy for travelers to find a flight that fits their schedule and budget for this popular route.
Departure Point
Kansas City Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Traveling by bus from Kansas City to Chicago is a convenient and affordable option for those looking to explore the Midwest. While there is no direct bus service, Greyhound USA offers a route that includes a transfer at St Louis Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes, during which passengers can enjoy the scenic views of the Heartland. With tickets ranging from $62 to $155, the bus provides a budget-friendly means of transportation and allows travelers to avoid the hassle of driving and parking. Upon reaching Chicago Bus Station, visitors can easily access the city's renowned attractions and vibrant atmosphere.
Departure Point
Kansas City Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider using the Greyhound service from Kansas City to St. Louis, which takes about 4 hours and allows you a brief layover to stretch your legs before continuing on the next leg to Chicago; schedule information can be found at greyhound.com
• Make sure to check both Greyhound and Jefferson Lines for potential buses that fit your schedule, as some routes may have shorter transfer times; you can find their schedules at greyhound.com and jeffersonlines.com
• Upon arriving at Chicago's Greyhound Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the layout by visiting the station map available online at greyhound.com this will help you find local transport options such as the CTA trains and buses that can take you to your next destination efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Kansas City to Chicago.
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The cheapest way to travel from Kansas City to Chicago is by taking a train. Amtrak offers several routes that connect these two cities, with prices ranging from $22 to $190, depending on the type of ticket and class of service. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes, providing a comfortable and scenic travel experience through the heartland of America.
The fastest way to travel from Kansas City to Chicago is by flying. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 57 minutes. The cost of a flight can range from $110 to $600, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability.
The distance from Kansas City to Chicago is approximately 668 km. If you prefer to travel by road, the distance is about 825 km. The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it usually takes around 8-9 hours.
The cheapest way to travel from Kansas City to Chicago without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes and can cost between $60 and $160, depending on the bus company and travel dates.
The average travel time from Kansas City to Chicago is around 3 hours and 57 minutes, including any necessary transfers.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Chicago. There are over 1116 hotels available, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Prices start at $58 per night, but can vary depending on the location and amenities. Some popular areas to stay in Chicago include downtown, Magnificent Mile, and the Loop, which are all centrally located and offer easy access to major attractions and public transportation.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Kansas City to Chicago. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 824 km. The average time it takes to drive from Kansas City to Chicago is around 8 hours and 29 minutes.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Kansas City and Chicago. However, there are bus services available. The journey involves transferring at St Louis Bus Station. The total travel time is approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Kansas City to Chicago at the Kansas City Bus Station. This is the main bus station in Kansas City and is conveniently located for travelers. Greyhound USA operates bus services between these two cities and offers reliable and affordable transportation options.
The bus from Kansas City to Chicago arrives at the Chicago Bus Station. This is a centrally located bus terminal that serves as the main hub for Greyhound USA services in Chicago. It is conveniently situated near downtown Chicago, making it easy for travelers to access various attractions and transportation options upon arrival. The Chicago Bus Station offers various amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and ticketing services.
Southwest Airlines is the main airline that offers flights between Kansas City and Chicago. They operate flights from Kansas City Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. Other airlines such as United Airlines also offer flights between the two cities, but Southwest Airlines is known for offering competitive prices and frequent flights.
The fastest way to travel from Kansas City to Chicago is by plane. The quickest flight from Kansas City Airport to Chicago Midway Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Southwest Airlines offers flights between the two cities, and the overall travel time is around 3 hours and 57 minutes. The price range for flights between Chicago and Kansas City is typically between $112 and $555.
The flight from Kansas City to Chicago takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes on a direct flight.
Trains from Kansas City to Chicago arrive at Chicago Union Station. This historic train station is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient arrival point. Chicago Union Station is a major transportation hub that offers various connecting options, allowing travelers to easily explore the city and other destinations.
Yes, there is a direct train connection between Kansas City and Chicago. The train departs once daily from Kansas City and arrives at Chicago Union Station. This direct train service operates every day and the journey takes approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes.
To catch the train from Kansas City to Chicago you will need to go to the Kansas City station. Amtrak operates the train services on this route, and they depart from the Kansas City station.
The cost of a flight from Kansas City to Chicago can range from $112 to $555, depending on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and the class of travel.
The cost of a train from Kansas City to Chicago can range from $22 to $190, depending on the type of ticket and class of service you choose.
The cost of a bus ticket from Kansas City to Chicago can range from $62 to $155, depending on the bus company, time of travel, and level of comfort desired.
The cost of driving from Kansas City to Chicago can range from $90 to $140, depending on factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency.
Trips from Kansas City
Trips to Chicago
- Nashville to Chicago
- Toronto to Chicago
- Boston to Chicago
- Milwaukee to Chicago
- Wichita to Chicago
- New York to Chicago
- Detroit to Chicago
- Minneapolis to Chicago
- Dallas to Chicago
- Atlanta to Chicago
- Miami to Chicago
- Cleveland to Chicago
- Washington to Chicago
- Scranton to Chicago
- San Francisco to Chicago
- Saint Louis to Chicago
- Indianapolis to Chicago